Related articles

This means Maryland will not be hit by the category 2 hurricane but people living there still face perilous conditions, officials say.

Governor Larry Hogan said: There is an elevated potential for historic and catastrophic rainfall, life-threatening flooding, and high winds.

“I urge Marylanders to stay tuned to your local news stations for the latest updates, listen to state and local authorities, use common sense, and most importantly, plan and be prepared ahead of this storm.

“Do not wait until Wednesday.”

Hurricane Florence tracker: Maryland is at risk of major rainfall (Image: NHC/EPA/NASA)

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MDMEMA) advised residents in the state to remain “extremely vigilant” as Florence makes landfall.

Warnings are being issued for people to be on alert for areas prone to flooding.

Large areas of Maryland have already experienced “significant rainfall” in the last day leaving the ground saturated and at risk of further flood damage.

An emergency shelter strategy has been activiated while the state’s National Guard stands ready to assist.